Conor Chaplin pushed his claims for a first XI starting spot by scoring the only goal as the Blues reserves beat Southend 1-0 in the Premier League Cup.

There was also good news on the injury front for Kenny Jackett as full-back Nathan Thompson played an hour to show he is close to being fit for selection.

Pompey are now through to the group stage, where they will play Barnsley, Everton and Leicester.

Chaplin netted when Theo Widdrington’s corner fell to him just a few yards out.

Trialist Mohamed Maouche caught the eye for Pompey, as did Matt Mayes and Christian Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Chaplin missed a late penalty in the Westleigh Park encounter.

Pompey: Bass; Oxlade-Chamberlain, Thompson, (Dandy 58), Casey, Hancott; Smith, Widdrington, Bedford (Lethbridge 78), Maouche; Chaplin, Mayes (Chandler 87) Subs not used: Collins, Brooks

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